Black licorice recalled due to high lead levels

(AP) Officials are warning consumers against eating black licorice candy produced by a California company because it contains high levels of lead.

The California Department of Public Health issued the warning Wednesday against 16-ounce bags of Red Vines Black Licorice Twists with the label "Best Before 020413."

The manufacturer, American Licorice Co. of Union City, has issued a voluntary recall for the tainted batch.

Health officials say the licorice was distributed inside and outside of California. They're working with the company to determine where it was shipped.

Officials say tests show the product contains levels of lead that are more than twice the recommended daily limit for young children.

Authorities say pregnant women and parents of small children should contact their health care provider if they have recently eaten the licorice.